Charleston Lowcountry Day Cruise with Gold Bug Charters
Difficulty
easy
Duration
3 hours
Fitness Level
Suitable for all fitness levels; minimal physical exertion required beyond boarding and swimming if chosen.
Overview
Set sail aboard the vintage 1972 Gold Bug for a customizable 3-hour cruise through Charleston’s Lowcountry. Swim, relax, and discover iconic spots like Sullivan’s Island and Morris Island Beach with seasoned local captains.
Day Cruise
For all ages! • 3 Hours • Live Like a Charleston Local!
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About This Adventure
Embark on a unique 3-hour water adventure in the Charleston Lowcountry aboard the beautifully restored 1972 Gold Bug. With experienced captains at the helm, customize your journey to stunning destinations like Sullivan's Island or Morris Island Beach. Enjoy ample seating, a cooler for refreshments, and the freedom to swim and relax!
Experience the Charleston Lowcountry by water!
Duration
3 hours
About
With seating for up to 6 passengers, you and your favorite people can hit the water like a local for the day. Whether you have a destination in mind or just want to cruise, we take our favorite days on the water here and make them available to you. Cheers!
Gold Bug is a fully restored 1972 Potter Hull Sea Craft and was featured in Florida Sportsmans Dream Boat series. She has ample seating, a cooler, and bluetooth connection for your use!
You're in good hands! Captains Lauren and John Michael are both maritime veterans, with a long history of both local and international experience. Both hold 100 Ton USCG Masters Licenses, so you can expect lowcountry hospitality paired with world class experience. We can’t wait to spend the day with you!
Some destinations are weather and tide dependent! That being said, here are some ideas: Sullivans Island Cruise, Breach Inlet Sanbar Day, Morris Island Beach Day, Harbor Cruise, Kings Tide Restaurant, Shem Creek Restaurants. Your pick! Let's talk it through and come up with the ideal plan for your group.
What to bring
We are looking forward to meeting you! There is a cooler with bottled water & ice for your beverages and snacks (BYOB!), bluetooth speaker system and towels for your use while on the trip. Swimming is allowed and we recommend bringing a hat, sunscreen, and weather appropriate clothing. Please let us know if you have children so we can make sure we have appropriate life jackets. 3 y/o minimum.
Adventure Tips
Bring sun protection
The boat offers shade, but sunscreen, hats, and sunglasses will keep you comfortable during the sunny afternoon hours.
Pack swimwear and towels
Swimming is allowed, so bring your swimsuit and a towel to take advantage of stops at beaches and sandbars.
Notify about kids in your group
If traveling with children, inform Gold Bug Charters beforehand so appropriate life jackets can be provided.
Bring your own beverages
While there is a cooler with water and ice onboard, guests are welcome to bring their own drinks to enjoy during the cruise.
Local Insights
Wildlife
- bottlenose dolphins
- osprey soaring above marshes
History
Morris Island Beach features the ruins of a Civil War-era lighthouse, a quiet reminder of Charleston's coastal defense history.
Conservation
Gold Bug Charters operates with a focus on low-impact boating practices to protect the delicate marsh ecosystems and marine wildlife.
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Adventure Hotspots in Charleston
Frequently Asked Questions
Recommended Gear
Sunscreen
Protects skin during the sunny, exposed portions of the cruise.
spring specific
Swimsuit
Allows enjoyment of swimming stops at beaches and sandbars.
summer specific
Light jacket
Provides warmth against coastal breezes in cooler weather.
fall specific
Water bottle
Staying hydrated is key during outdoor water adventures.